Man caught on camera approaching, spraying unknown substance toward Yellowstone wolves: rangers

Footage showed the unidentified man hopping toward the unbothered animals, seemingly taunting them as they retreated.

NPS officials said the incident was reported to rangers, who later found and cited the man. 

It is unclear what led the man to make the brazen advance, or what was in the spray captured on video.

They added when visitors get too close to wildlife, they may feel threatened and act in self-defense, especially if their young are nearby.

"It is the visitor's responsibility to maintain a safe distance at all times," the NPS wrote. "Never approach, feed or disturb wildlife. If an animal moves toward you, back away and give it space. Zoom with your lens, not with your feet."

Human interaction can also harm wildlife by becoming habituated to human presence, which increases the likelihood of dangerous encounters and can disrupt hunting, feeding and breeding behaviors, according to the NPS.